Things to share from my business journey

The Power of Intention

When was the last time you intended on doing something and actually got around to doing it? I personally intended to get up early this morning to make my lunch and go to the gym but despite my best intentions, neither seemed to happen. Although, were they really my best intentions, and was I truly determined to face the cold when my alarm abruptly woke me at 6am? Upon hitting snooze, my intentions silently slipped away along with my consciousness and they instantly became something I failed to achieve.

Perhaps when we refer to our intentions in the past tense it’s simply a convenient way of making ourselves feel better for not doing what we set out to do? So if intention can be so strong that it makes us feel fine about failing to get something done, imagine how powerful it could be if we used it as we should; to plan, to aim, to motivate. In this light, our intention becomes similar to setting goals, but with positive reinforcement – like our very own life coach who is already convinced that we are going to reach our objectives.

It’s worth realising though, that intention can only be as powerful as we wish to make it. If there are failed attempts at getting things done (like a 6am gym class) it might be that the overall goal (increased fitness) is not prominent enough at the time or just isn’t quite realistic (if say you’re not a morning person). To this extent, we can use our intention to drive us to achieve a goal but its full power is only realised when it’s at the forefront of our mind and made practical enough to reach.

Intention is surely better used as a proactive driver rather than a reactive excuse. The before-work gym run doesn’t have to be a battle; if improved fitness is the intention, there are other times to exercise to get there. Whatever it is that you want to accomplish in the short and long term you can use the power of your very own intention to help get you there – and enjoy a sleep-in while you’re at it.